Director of Operations- Tradeshow and Event Industry

Position Summary

The Director of Operations is responsible for overseeing and optimizing all operational aspects of tradeshow and event execution. This role oversees labor planning, show-site execution, warehouse operations, freight coordination, installation & dismantle (I&D), safety compliance, and operational profitability. The ideal candidate brings strong operational leadership, experience in the tradeshow/event industry, managing union labor relationships and the ability to manage multiple complex projects in fast paced environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership
  Lead day-to-day operational and warehouse activities related to tradeshow and event production.
  Develop and implement operational standards, workflows, and best practices across warehouse and field operations.
  Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on labor productivity, margin improvement, and client satisfaction.
  Monitor project timelines, labor schedules, transportation coordination, and installation deadlines.
  Resolve operational challenges quickly while maintaining service excellence.
  Partner with Business Development and Client Service teams to ensure operational alignment with client expectations.
  Manage ongoing relationships with facilities, vendors service partners to support mutual success.

• Team Management
  Lead, mentor, and develop operations staff, warehouse personnel, and field teams.
  Foster a culture of accountability, safety, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
  Develop staffing plans to ensure proper staffing on shows and peak schedules.

• Financial Management
  Monitor labor utilization, project costs, overtime, and profitability targets.
  Identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining quality and service standards.

• Compliance & Safety
  Ensure compliance with GES Safety standards, DOT regulations, venue requirements, and union labor rules.
  Maintain safe warehouse and show-site operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or relevant experience in Operations Management, Event Management, or related field.

• 7–10+ years of operational leadership experience within the tradeshow, exhibit, experiential marketing, or live events industry.

• Experience managing union labor environments.

• Experience managing warehouse operations.

• Proven ability to lead teams in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments.

• Strong financial acumen and budget management experience.

• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Skills

• Experience working with union labor and convention centers.

• Lean operations or process improvement experience.

• Ability to travel and work flexible hours including evenings and weekends during peak event periods.

Benefits

The rewards of joining GES are extensive. We offer a comprehensive benefits package to all full-time employees. Here are some of the highlights:

• Competitive salaries

• 401K with company match

• Healthcare/vision/dental insurance

• Wellness benefits

• Career development program

• Employee assistance program

• Vacation time

• Community involvement opportunities

• Team activities

Compensation

$115,000.00+. The pay range and actual offers are based on a variety of individualized factors including skills, qualifications, experience, location and role specific competencies. Some positions may also offer additional earnings, such as bonuses, incentives or commissions.